HOW TO PREP
Simple steps, safety protocols, and key guidelines to ensure a smooth, effortless visit.
Before our arrival
Getting Ready for Your SkipTheChores Pros
To ensure a seamless service, top-tier quality, and maximum efficiency, please review our preparation guidelines prior to your scheduled arrival.
Category
Detailed Requirements & Guidelines
Key actions required
Category 01
Valuables, Personal Security & Home Access
Secure Cash & High-Value Items
Put away cash, expensive jewelry, sensitive financial documents, passports, and small high-end electronics prior to arrival.
Key & Access Protocols
Provide clear entrance instructions (lockbox code, concierge authorization, key fob placement, or alarm code). Ensure alarm instructions are explicitly detailed in your booking notes.
GTA High-Rise & Condo Regulations
- Pre-book service elevators if large equipment is permitted.
- Notify concierge/security desk of the scheduled cleaning team.
- Arrange visitor parking passes or designate guest parking stalls to avoid arrival delays.
Key action
Secure valuables and set clear access instructions before arrival day.
Category 02
Pet Safety & Space Clearance
Pet Containment
Secure all pets (dogs, cats, small animals) in a designated quiet room, crate, or separate area to prevent stress or accidental escape when doors are open.
Clear Clutter from Surfaces & Floors
Pick up clothes, toys, loose paper, and food containers off floors and countertops.
The "Do Not Pre-Clean" Rule
- Do: Clear surface clutter so cleaners can reach countertops, sinks, and floors immediately.
- Don't: Worry about cleaning before we arrive. Your cleaners will never judge or critique your home.
Key action
Secure pets in a quiet space and clear surface clutter.
Category 03
Safety Protocols & Fine-Print Restrictions
Weight & Reach Limits
Cleaners cannot lift or move furniture/appliances exceeding 25 lbs (11 kg) and will not step higher than a standard 2-step ladder (under 180 cm height).
Hazardous & Biological Materials
Cleaners will not handle biohazards, human/animal waste, mold remediation, chemical spills, or pest infestations.
Unreachable & Delicate Surfaces
Exterior windows, high ceilings, ceiling fan interiors, fragile antique collections, or unsealed marble/hardwood requiring non-standard chemical care are excluded unless pre-arranged in writing.
Key action
Review the fine print and pre-arrange any special requests in writing.
Category 04
Tipping Etiquette & Cash Gratuities
Tipping Policy
Tipping is never mandatory, but it is always deeply appreciated by your hard-working local cleaners.
Cash & Outside Payments
While online booking payments cover base rates, tips outside the online payment system are fully welcome.
How to Tip
Leave cash in a clearly labeled envelope on the kitchen counter, provide an e-Transfer directly, or give a cash gratuity at the door. Common tips range between 10%–20% or a flat $15–$30 for regular visits.
Key action
Tips are optional — 10%–20% or $15–$30 flat, given directly to your pro.
Category 05
Access & Entry
Preferred Entry Method
Declare access details prior to arrival via your account dashboard or booking notes (e.g., lockbox code, keyfob, concierge clearance, or key placement).
Empty Home & Security
Indicate if pros will be working in an empty home or if anyone will be present.
Identity Requests
If your building management requires ID for vendor entry, notify us at least 24 hours in advance.
Occupancy & Safety Notes
Inform us beforehand of any safety concerns, active construction, or other individuals present in the home during service hours.
Key action
Set access instructions in your profile prior to arrival day.
Category 06
Home Preparation
Declutter Surfaces
Clear floors and counters of toys, personal paperwork, sensitive items, and heavy boxes.
Kitchen Sink & Dishes
Put away dirty dishes unless Dish Washing was explicitly booked as a service add-on. Sinks and counters must be accessible so pros can sanitize surfaces without obstruction.
Key action
Tidy personal clutter and clear the kitchen sink.
Category 07
Pro Safety & Conduct
Workplace Respect
Pros require a safe, distraction-free environment to maintain quality control and manage timing effectively.
Service Instructions
Provide specialized instructions before service begins or via your booking notes rather than while work is actively underway.
Zero Tolerance Policy
Sexual harassment, abusive behavior, and intrusive personal questions regarding a pro's private life or relationships are strictly prohibited. Please maintain a professional environment.
Key action
Provide workspace space and communicate notes beforehand.
Category 08
Add-On Chores
Booking Add-Ons
Extra tasks outside your original booking must be logged through the SkipTheChores App or web profile for shift tracking and security reasons.
Same-Day Requests
If you need on-the-spot add-ons, contact support by phone or ask your pro if their schedule allows extra time. All additions must be officially registered in your active booking before work begins.
Rescheduling Extras
Unbooked extras that cannot be accommodated on the spot can be scheduled for the next business day.
Key action
Log all extra services in the app or via phone support.
Category 09
Parking Arrangements
Clear Parking Access
Clients must arrange suitable parking for our team upon arrival.
Details Needed
Indicate if parking is paid, specify driveway availability, or note the walking distance from street parking.
Reimbursement
Any parking meter or garage fees incurred by pros will be billed directly to the client's final invoice.
Key action
Specify parking details or driveway clearance in advance.
Category 10
Quality & Guarantees
24-Hour Quality Window
If any area falls below our standard, file a report within 24 hours of job completion to qualify for our complimentary re-service guarantee.
Prompt Payments
All payments are processed automatically online immediately after service completion so we can compensate our pros on time. Ensure your registered card is active.
Key action
Report service issues within 24 hours of service.
Category 11
Laundry Subscription
SkipTheChores Branded Bags
Subscribers receive an official branded laundry bag. All items sent for laundering must be placed inside this assigned bag.
Pickup & Delivery Cycle
Laundry bags are collected on your scheduled cleaning day and returned the next business day — washed, dried, and neatly folded.
Bag Ownership & Additional Bags
All branded bags remain the property of SkipTheChores and must be returned if monthly service ends. Extra bags can be requested via your account.
Key action
Place laundry in your assigned SkipTheChores bag on cleaning day.
Category 12
Payment Policy
No Cash Payments
Cash is not accepted under any circumstances. All services must be billed securely through the web/mobile app or via Interac e-Transfer to pay@helpquarters.com.
Parent Company
HelpQuarters Inc. is the parent operating company for SkipTheChores (skipthechores.com).
Key action
Pay via in-app card charge or official Interac e-Transfer.
Prep FAQ
Your Prep Questions, Answered
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